Manchester United are close to hiring Real Madrid center-back Raphael Varane, who they hope will be able to work with Sevilla’s Jules Kounde next season.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is looking for a long-term partner for Harry Maguire and had originally thought about 22-year-old Kounde, only to change his focus to Varane when it became clear that the Frenchman wanted to leave Real.
United are close to signing Varane / Quality Sport Images / Getty Images
It seemed as if United’s mind was determined, but according to the Daily Mail, there are actually plans to make two blockbuster signings on the back and club officials are working on a deal to get Kounde as well.
Chelsea, Tottenham and Real Madrid are all chasing the Sevilla man, but Solskjaer has made it clear to those in charge at United that he also wants Kounde – and plans are already being made to offer the 22-year-old a chance to move to Old Trafford.
It’s a move that doesn’t really make much sense on paper. Should both Varane and Kounde join, one of them would regularly sit on the bench, although it is suggested that Kounde’s future may lie on the right back.
Again, it does not make much sense either. United already have Aaron Wan-Bissaka and are pursuing Atletico Madrid’s Kieran Trippier, so there is really no room in the squad for Kounde at all.
Due to the lack of first team guarantees he would receive, it is difficult to see Kounde take United on his offer, especially when there are other top sides ready to build their defense around him.
Kounde moves may be unlikely, but the prospect of Varane joining United seems almost certain at this point as the Red Devils are close to agreeing on a fee with Real.
A move for Kounde does not make much sense / John Berry / Getty Images
United are expected to pay around 45 million euros for the Frenchman, although Marca suggests that the final fee may be a little higher and rest closer to 50 million euros.
When that deal is done, United will turn to other goals, but it’s hard to see them spending too much time on Kounde.
